Neighborhood Feature: Downtown Atlanta

Neighborhood Feature: Downtown Atlanta

Discover Downtown Atlanta, Georgia’s historic city center and capital, known for its walkability and dynamic, urban atmosphere. Whether you live, work or play in the city, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

A Railroad Connection Point

Atlanta, Georgia, USA downtown skyline at dusk.

Originally called Terminus, the area that is now known as Downtown Atlanta was founded in 1837 to connect Milledgeville and Chattanooga. A few years later, the 30 citizens of the city voted to change its name to Marthasville, in honor of the current governor’s daughter, but later changed it again in 1847 to Atlanta.

A Booming Industry

Tech Tower at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Midtown.

Downtown Atlanta is known for its rich economy, which is why multiple Fortune 500 companies moved their headquarters to the city in recent years. With over 22 million square feet of office space and expansive skyscrapers, Downtown Atlanta has made a name for itself as one of the largest business districts in the country. Nationally acclaimed universities, Georgia Institute of Technology and Georgia State University, are also nestled in the city, further cultivating professional growth and economic prosperity.

To accommodate the influx of people traveling for work and relocating to the city, Atlanta also boasts the busiest airport in the country, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, as well as its own mass transportation system, MARTA, that makes stops throughout the metro and downtown areas.

Entertainment & Attractions

There is no shortage of things to do in Downtown Atlanta! Spend the day at World of Coca-Cola and learn about the local company’s beginnings while sampling unique drinks from around the globe. Across the street, the Georgia Aquarium offers mesmerizing aquatic exhibits, live shows and up-close animal encounters that the whole family will love. Georgia residents can also score season passes for the price of a single ticket, which allows you to visit multiple times throughout the year.

In Downtown Atlanta, home games are worth celebrating at Mercedez-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena. Watch the Atlanta Falcons take on NFL competition inside Mercedez-Benz Stadium and cheer on Atlanta United FC soccer throughout the year. The Atlanta Hawks, the city’s NBA team, calls State Farm Arena home with the capacity for more than 16,000 spectators and 360° screen that ensures you catch the action from every angle. During the offseason, both venues also host concerts and other events that bring in fans from across the country.

Delve into Atlanta history at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, which covers 35 acres and invites visitors to explore key sites related to King’s work as a civil rights activist. Make time to visit King’s birth home or attend a “church talk” at historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he often preached in Downtown Atlanta.

Take a Bite Out of Downtown Atlanta!

Happy multiracial family having bbq dinner party outside - Group of friends dining at garden restaurant - Young people enjoying lunch break together - Food and beverage lifestyle concept

While you’re in the neighborhood, make time to indulge in Downtown Atlanta’s best restaurants and bars. Atlanta Breakfast Club is a staple for locals, serving up hearty, hot portions of breakfast classics like chicken and waffles, breakfast tacos and French toast. Located in the Candler Hotel, By George serves upscale, Southern favorites and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Enjoy scrumptious lobster rolls, linguine primavera and mouth-watering steaks, each pairing tastefully with a full wine and cocktail menu. In the mood for pizza? Firepit Pizza Tavern serves up a wide selection of build-your-own pizzas, sandwiches and more in a cozy atmosphere.

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